Definition of which species and priority collection sites based on updated red lists and the JBS’s own databases. Preference is given to those species that are in danger of extinction and those inhabiting localities where their conservation is at risk: urbanizable zones, beaches with high tourist pressure, potential forest fire areas, etc

Determination of the sampling strategy to achieve maximum variability and not damage the population. It is recommended not to exceed 10% of the total annual production of each population, collecting the same number of seeds from each individual. The collected seeds must be mature so they can tolerate the conservation process without losing viability.

Documentation of the collection with the collection date, species name, collector, habitat, number of specimens comprising the sample, exact locality with UTM coordinates and altitude (m), photographs, and herbarium samples.

Registration in the database. This code will be maintained throughout the entire conservation process.

In cases where the sample has not been sufficient (less than 1000 seeds), the initial number of seeds will be increased with those obtained by controlled multiplication in the JBS nurseries. Cleaning consists of eliminating any fruit residue that could contaminate the sample. Seed counting is done by extrapolating the number of seeds from a sample of which its volume or weight is known.

Before preserving the samples definitively, it is advisable to verify their viability. If this is less than 80%, a second collection will be scheduled for the following year.

Dehydration consists of reducing the moisture content of the seeds to a minimum level of metabolic activity, without causing them to lose viability.

This is done by keeping the seeds in a hermetic chamber where a relative humidity of between 3% and 7% is maintained, thanks to the action of silica gel that absorbs the remaining moisture. According to Harrington’s law, for every 1% that the moisture content of the seed is reduced, its longevity is doubled.

The Base Collection is the one that preserves seeds for the long term.

The seeds are maintained at 3-7% humidity at a temperature of -20ºC. According to Harrington’s law, for every 5ºC that the storage temperature is lowered, the longevity of the seeds is doubled.

The Active Collection is the one used to maintain exchanges with other institutions and for the propagation of species destined for the live plant collections of the JBS.

This collection is maintained at 3-7% humidity and at a temperature of -10ºC.